Ed Stasium

Faves of 2023: The Replacements – Tim Let It Bleed

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Since the release of the Ed Stasium mix of Tim, we have been celebrating that record. We have been showcasing several thoughts about this mix.

For us, it is one of the best remixes of a record we have had the pleasure to hear. It demonstrates what an incredible band The Replacements were and the talents and unique contributions of each member in that band. Hearing the Stasium mix is like hearing these songs for the first time. And instead of revealing flaws and limitations, the remix does just the opposite. More than mere flashes of brilliance, the amazing sound is revealed — a band at the height of its ability. Hearing these songs it is like brushing debris and dirt off of stone and finding something even more beautiful than you were expecting. To be entirely forthcoming, this record has long been a favorite. But the muddiness of the original version always left something to be desired. This mix fixes that problem. And for that reason and many more, it is a favorite of 2023.

The brilliance of Ed Stasium’s mix on The Replacements’ “Tim: Let it Bleed Edition” lies in an ability to capture the raw energy and emotional depth of the band while enhancing the overall sonic experience. Stasium, a seasoned producer and engineer with an impressive track record, brought his expertise to the table, elevating the album to new heights.

One of the key elements of Stasium’s brilliance is his understanding of the band’s dynamic and the essence of their sound. The Replacements were known for their unpolished, punk-influenced aesthetic, and Stasium managed to preserve that authenticity while adding a layer of clarity to the mix. He struck a delicate balance between maintaining the band’s signature rough edges and ensuring that every instrument and vocal had its own space in the songs.

The album’s opener, “Hold My Life,” perfectly exemplifies Stasium’s prowess. The guitars roar with a gritty intensity, complemented by Paul Westerberg’s impassioned vocals. Stasium’s mix allows each instrument to shine individually, yet they come together seamlessly to create a powerful and cohesive sonic picture. The punchy drumming of Chris Mars cuts through with precision, anchoring the track’s driving rhythm.

Stasium’s attention to detail is evident throughout the album, especially on tracks like “Bastards of Young” and “Left of the Dial.” The former showcases Stasium’s ability to capture the nuances of Bob Stinson’s guitar work, from the jangly chords to the blistering solos. Meanwhile, “Left of the Dial” benefits from a mix that highlights the emotional resonance of Westerberg’s lyrics, making it a standout moment on the record.

Beyond the individual performances, Stasium also mastered the art of creating a three-dimensional sonic space, something that the previous version of the record significantly lacked. The Replacements’ music thrives on its live and unfiltered feel, and Stasium’s mix amplifies this by immersing the listener in a rich auditory experience. The layers of sound on tracks like “Swingin Party” or “Here Comes a Regular” create a sense of depth, inviting the audience to fully immerse themselves in the music.

In essence, Ed Stasium’s mix on “Tim: Let it Bleed Edition” showcases brilliance in understanding and enhancing the unique qualities of The Replacements. He managed to capture the essence of the band’s raw energy, preserving their authenticity while elevating the overall sonic quality of the album. Stasium’s contribution to this edition of “Tim” solidifies a reputation as a masterful engineer and producer, leaving an indelible mark on one of The Replacements’ most iconic albums by simply allowing the band to be itself.

Video of the Day: Behind the Sound: Replacements’ ‘Tim’ gets remastered

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When a classic album from the annals of rock history gets the remix treatment, fans often approach it with a mixture of excitement and trepidation. In the case of The Replacements’ seminal record ‘Tim,’ which recently received a remix that was discussed in a video ‘Behind the Sound: Replacements’ ‘Tim’ gets remastered,’ this cautious optimism was well-founded. The result is a meticulous and loving restoration of an album that not only preserves its raw emotional power but also enhances its sonic experience for a new generation.

Originally released in 1985, ‘Tim’ was an album that catapulted The Replacements into the alternative rock pantheon. Known for their punk-influenced sound, the band’s music always possessed a gritty, midwestern unpolished charm, and ‘Tim’ was no exception. But with this remixed edition, listeners are treated to an experience that remains faithful to the band’s raw essence while elevating it to new heights.

One of the most remarkable aspects of ‘Tim’ has always been its emotional depth. It’s an album that’s often regarded as a cornerstone of American alternative rock, thanks to its introspective and sometimes turbulent lyrics. With the remix, this emotional core is brought into sharper focus. The subtle nuances in Paul Westerberg’s raspy vocals and the poignant lyrical themes are now more pronounced, allowing listeners to delve deeper into the album’s soul.

The instrumental components of ‘Tim’ have been given a thorough makeover as well. The album’s instrumental arrangements, once somewhat obscured by the lo-fi production values of the 1980s, now shine through with greater clarity. Chris Mars’ drumming, Tommy Stinson’s basslines, and Bob Stinson’s searing guitar work are all more defined. Each instrument is allowed to breathe, and their combined efforts are all the more powerful for it.

The soundstage of this remix deserves special praise. The separation of instruments, the placement of Westerberg’s vocals, and the overall balance of the mix are executed with remarkable finesse. In songs like ‘Bastards of Young’ and ‘Swingin Party,’ the emotional punch is delivered with newfound precision. The album’s quieter moments, such as ‘Here Comes a Regular,’ showcase a depth and subtlety that were somewhat muted in the original release.

The remix process, handled by Ed Stasium who clearly understands the album’s significance, respects the integrity of ‘Tim.’ It doesn’t attempt to transform the music into something it’s not. Instead, it removes the layers of sonic muddiness and distortion that had accumulated over the years, allowing the album’s authenticity to shine through. The result is an album that feels fresh and relevant, even decades after its initial release.

Despite the overall sonic improvements, there’s a warmth to the remixed ‘Tim’ that retains the album’s original character. The imperfections and rough edges that make The Replacements so beloved remain intact, a reminder of the band’s DIY ethos and punk roots.

For fans of The Replacements who have cherished ‘Tim’ for years, the Tim: Let It Bleed edition is a gift that allows them to experience the album in a new light. For those who are new to the band, it’s a fantastic entry point that showcases the band’s musical brilliance.

In conclusion, ‘Behind the Sound: Replacements’ ‘Tim’ gets remastered’ is an exceptional example of how a remaster can enhance a classic album without sacrificing its essence. The emotional depth of ‘Tim’ remains untouched, while the sonic quality is remarkably improved. This remix not only does justice to an important album in alternative rock history but also demonstrates the enduring power of The Replacements’ music. Whether you’re a long-time fan or just discovering the band, this remastered ‘Tim’ is a must-listen that captures the essence of an era while sounding fresh and captivating in the present.

The Replacements’ “Tim Let it Bleed Edition” – A Raw and Unfiltered Gem

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The Replacements’ 1985 masterpiece, “Tim,” has long been celebrated as a cornerstone of alternative rock history. With its timeless blend of punk energy and heart-wrenching ballads, the original album left an indelible mark on the music landscape. However, the production of ‘Tim’ has since its release been a subject of debate. While the original mix captured the power of the band, there was simply a lot of detail that was lost in an odd choice of mono-focused production and lo-fi-like aesthetic.

Now, in 2023, we’re treated to “Tim Let it Bleed Edition,” a reissue that not only pays homage to the original but adds a raw, unfiltered layer that deepens the emotional resonance of the record. Although nothing new was added to the remixed tracks by Ed Stasium, what is different is that we all can now clearly hear what the band was doing.

This “Let it Bleed Edition” is more than just a reissue; it’s a journey back in time. The original tracks, from the borderline reckless “Bastards of Young” to the devasting and powerful “Little Mascara” to the poignant “Swingin Party,” are as impactful as ever, maybe even more so because from the vocals to the guitars, bass, and drums listeners can find the detail that was simply buried. Westerberg’s voice is even more fragile and vulnerable yet cheeky and tough in an “I don’t need your validation and approval” way. The Replacements’ signature blend of rebellion and vulnerability shines through, capturing the essence of youthful angst and uncertainty.

Bob Stinson’s guitar parts shine in this remixed record with a power, finesse, and movement that was lost in the mono aesthetic of the original. There are parts and aspects to his playing that were simply lost. The phasing and shifting of Stinson’s movement was far more than assumed whether he was playing a silly rocker (“Lay It Down Clown,” “Dose of Thunder”) or a serious reflection on life’s challenges (“Little Mascara,” “Bastards of Young”). Bob Stinson was a great guitar player who was far more sophisticated and expressive than the original mix concealed.

“Little Mascara” in particular becomes more powerful lyrically and sonically with this remix. The song’s impact becomes inescapable. The sense of anomie, frustration, and entrapment of the narrative escalates to feel almost suffocating. This version is mind-blowing in part because it brims with a collusion between chaos and sentiment. A spectacular song that is fully realized in this new version of the album.

Also long overdue is the reflection and realization of what an incredible bass player, Tommy Stinson was at the tender age of 18 when the album was recorded. Stinson’s bass parts demonstrate a strength, speed, dexterity, and maturity on his instrument that is shocking. To say he is a damn fine bass player feels like an understatement. The Stasium remix reveals some of the finest bass runs and progressions in contemporary rock and roll. These are now clear and convincing in this version of the record.

“Here Comes a Regular” changed greatly in the new mix. That song morphed from a wistful song to a deeply melancholic almost melodramatic tune. The clarity of the vocals now does not allow a listener to hide from the sadness. That heavy emotional pain is far too real now, inescapable. It feels punishing and unbearable in a way that the original mix did not.

What truly sets this edition apart is the inclusion of previously unreleased live recordings and studio outtakes. The live tracks transport you to the sweaty, beer-soaked clubs of the ’80s, where The Replacements were at their most electrifying. Songs like “Hold My Life” and “Kiss Me on the Bus” gain a new vitality when performed in front of an eager crowd.

Drums can make or break the sound of a record. And Chris Mars was done a serious disservice with the original mixing. In the new mix, Mars has a feel, sway, and rhythm that was made mushy and soft but is now revealed to be anything but that. Wow, Mars’ drumming had some swing that was buried in the approach of the first record.

The studio outtakes, on the other hand, reveal the band’s creative process in all its messy glory. The rawness and imperfections in these unreleased gems provide a fascinating insight into The Replacements’ genius. “Waitress in the Sky (Alt Version)” showcases Paul Westerberg’s unmistakable wit, while “Here Comes a Regular (Demo)” strips the song down to its bare emotional bones, offering a more intimate connection with the band’s songwriting process.

‘Tim Let it Bleed Edition’ may not be a radical reinterpretation of the original, but it doesn’t need to be. The uncovering and clarity that is provided on the remix is like receiving the record for the first time. Nothing has been added because it was all already there just waiting to be discovered. Instead of reframing, this remix is a heartfelt tribute to a classic album, a love letter to a band that forever altered the course of alternative rock and indie. This reissue is a must-listen for die-hard fans and a perfect entry point for those who have yet to discover The Replacements’ timeless sound.

One is left to wonder if The Replacements would have achieved far more had Sire Records released this version of the record? While, this author, loves “Let It Be” and I still believe “Pleased to Meet Me” is damn near perfect — this version demonstrates the band was so much more than what was assumed. So much of what they could do was buried, hidden from the listener. Would The Replacements have then met Sire Records’ expectations in terms of sales? Certainly, the band created a powerful impression even with the mono aesthetic of the original production.

In the end, ‘Tim Let it Bleed Edition’ serves as a testament to the enduring power of The Replacements’ music. It’s a reminder that even decades later, their songs still resonate with the same raw energy and emotional honesty that made them legends in the first place. This edition may have “Let it Bleed” in the title, but it’s the heart and soul of The Replacements that truly bleed through every note.